Magnetic Latch for Display Module Secure Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing display module mounting systems lack a secure yet easily removable mechanism for coupling display modules to support chassis, often requiring significant manual force and risking damage during installation and removal.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic latching mechanism with a movable latch plate that magnetically engages with the support chassis, utilizing a magnetic device to securely attach and detach the display module, facilitated by an installation and removal tool that controls the magnetic forces to ease the process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a secure mounting mechanism is used to firmly attach display modules to the support chassis, then the coupling strength is improved, but the difficulty of removal increases and requires significant manual force
Solution Approach 1:
The latch plate is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to dynamically transition between engaged and disengaged positions. The magnetic force dynamically shifts between securing the display module and being overcome by the removal tool, enabling both strong attachment and easy removal without mechanical force
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems (screws, clips, latches) with a magnetic field-based system. The magnetic attraction provides secure coupling during normal operation, while the same magnetic force can be easily overcome by a magnetized removal tool, eliminating the need for significant manual force and mechanical disassembly
2Strength
If traditional mechanical fastening methods are used, then secure attachment is achieved, but the risk of damage during installation and removal increases
Solution Approach 1:
By replacing mechanical fastening with magnetic attachment, the system eliminates the high forces and potential for misalignment that cause damage in traditional systems. The magnetic force distributes evenly across the latch plate, and removal is achieved through magnetic attraction to a tool rather than forceful mechanical extraction
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic latching mechanism inherently provides a cushioning effect during installation, as the magnetic attraction gradually pulls the display module into position rather than requiring sudden mechanical engagement. This prevents impact damage and misalignment that occur with traditional snap-fit or screw-based systems
3Ease of operation
If a simple mounting mechanism is used, then ease of installation is improved, but the security and reliability of coupling deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic latching system is self-securing - when the display module is brought near the support chassis during installation, the magnetic attraction automatically pulls the latch plate into the engaged position and secures the module. No manual manipulation or additional fastening steps are required, yet the coupling is as secure as mechanical systems
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field provides reliable coupling without the complexity of mechanical interlocking mechanisms. The magnetic force consistently secures the display module across varying conditions, while the same system allows equally easy removal with a magnetized tool, achieving both simplicity and reliability
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables secure coupling while allowing easy and safe removal of display modules, reducing the risk of damage and requiring less manual force, thus simplifying installation and maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
a movable latch plate that magnetically engages with a mating structure in or on the support chassis to secure a rear face of the display module to the support chassis
Implementation Method 2
The movable latch plate can also be magnetically engaged by a magnetic device that is positioned on a front face of the display module to disengage the latch plate from its magnetic engagement with the chassis mating structure
Data Source
AI summary
A display module comprises a support structure, a plurality of light-emitting elements mounted to the support structure, and a latch assembly that includes a latch plate comprising a magnetically-engageable material, wherein the latch plate is moveable relative to the module support structure within a range of motion between a first position and a second position. The magnetically-engageable material of the latch plate forms a first magnetic attraction force between the latch plate and a support chassis mating structure when the latch plate is in the first position to at least partially secure the display module to the support chassis. A corresponding magnetic device can generate a second magnetic attraction force between the corresponding magnetic device and the latch plate that overcomes the first magnetic attraction force and moves the latch plate from the first position to the second position.